Journeys: Discover the Balkan Coast

Arrive at any time. Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
Welcome to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia known for a charming old city, complete with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings. Be sure to sample some of the delicious local food and drink. There are also a number of museums to explore focusing on art, history, and archaeology.

After the meeting, opt to head out for a meal in a local restaurant to get to know your Expedition Leader and travelling companions.


Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Activity - Head out with your Expedition Leader to get your bearings in the vibrant city of Zagreb. Wander by some key sites and landmarks, and check out the amazing graffiti and street art along the way.Accommodation - Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria

Enjoy an excursion to Plitviče Lakes National Park. Take in the splendor of the travertine barriers, which create gem-like natural pools, and wander past cascading waterfalls and towering karst formations on a guided walk along boardwalks. Learn about the diverse wildlife and unique bird population of this World Heritage Site – one of Croatia's most famed wonders. Take some free time for lunch, then journey down the Adriatic coast to Split and settle in for the night.
Entrance to the park is included and there are many opportunities for walking and relaxing in one of Croatia's most famed wonders.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Enjoy a morning walk in the National Park, admiring the stunning karst rock formations and cascading waterfalls. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views that make the park a must-see for visitors.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Corner

After breakfast, begin your exploration of this beautiful coastal city. Take a guided walk around Split's historic Old Town, where you'll discover the grandeur of Diocletian's Palace–dazzling Roman ruins and a UNESCO World Heritage Site built of luminous white stone imported from the nearby island of Braç. National Geographic writer Barbara A. Noe explored the “Gothic and Renaissance buildings incorporating the Roman remnants into their relatively “modern” styles, all within the palace's original walls” for the article “In Diocletian's Living Room.” Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Riva promenade – all while soaking in the rich history and stunning architecture of this unique city. Explore on your own with free time this afternoon. Wander the city at your leisure or join an optional excursion to the historic city of Trogir.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Explore Split's historic Old Town on a walking tour, where you'll discover the grandeur of Diocletian's Palace, stroll through charming cobblestone streets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Riva promenade, all while soaking in the rich history and stunning architecture of this UNESCO-listed city.Free_time - Opt to visit the Archaeology Museum or take an excursion to Trogir.Accommodation - Hotel Corner

Ready your sea legs as you board a Catamaran to Hvar town this morning, then set off for a walking tour with a local guide. Wander through the historical and cultural sites including the main square, St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Fortica Fortress. Stroll leisurely along the Riva Promenade and enjoy views of the harbor and nearby islands.
Join your guide on a walk back to the Citadel and continue your exploration with free time for lunch. After checking into your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to fill however you'd like.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.Activity - The walking tour of Hvar will takes you through the main historical and cultural sites of the town, including the main square, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Fortica Fortres.. The tour usually ends with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Riva Promenade, offering stunning views of the harbor and nearby islands.Free_time - Take time to explore Hvar at your own pace.Accommodation - Hotel Podstine Hvar

Today, step back into history and embrace traditional Croatian culture. Meet your local guide before transferring to Stari Grad, an ancient Greek settlement that is one of the oldest towns in Europe, as well as a UNESCO-listed site at the Stari Grad Plain. National Geographic writer, Alex Crevar, notes that approximately 120 archaeologists have found remains of ancient and prehistoric buildings in the plains, leading to unparalleled historic significance. After, head to Brusje, a nearly abandoned, once-bustling shepherd's village where you'll walk in ancient footsteps learning of the days gone by. Continue to Malo Grablje, a ghost town deserted since the 1960s, and wander through the haunting ruins of the town. Head to the only working restaurant at Berti's Konoba for a chat with the owner, then settle in for a traditional lunch. Return to Hvar after lunch and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Join a local guide walking the cobblestone streets of the Old Town (Stari Grad) while taking in the architecture of diverse worship. The Latin Bridge played an important role in the history of this area. This is the site where the Archduke of the Austro Hungarian Empire, Franz Ferdinand, was assassinated, leading to the beginning of World War I.Activity - Pass by key landmarks, including the historic parish church of St. George, the remnants of the old cooperative building, and the general store, before concluding at the local school and cemetery, silent witnesses to the generations that have called this place home.Activity - Explore this quiet ghost town village where a beautifully preserved olive mill, an old church, a school, and a public well stand as testaments to its history. Our walk ends at Berti's Konoba, where you'll meet the owner and chat.Free_time - Set out to explore at your own pace. Stroll through the historic Old Town's cobblestone streets, or take a short walk to a nearby pebble beach.Accommodation - Hotel Podstine Hvar

Cross the Neretva Channel by ferry and travel to Ston, famous for its defensive city walls and oyster farming. Here, enjoy a wine and oyster demonstration followed by a local lunch. Continue on to Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic”. Set on the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik has been an important maritime town in the region for centuries. Surrounded by medieval walls, it is rich in history and is a beautiful city to explore, filled with stunning architecture, museums, and fountains.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Wander the town of Ston with your Expedition Leader and see the massive and historic city wall. Learn about oyster farming and the local customs with your Expedition Leader.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Get to the next spot on your route aboard a ferry boat.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Set off on a walk through old town with a local guide at the helm. Learn of the intricate history and enjoy the city walls up close and personal.Accommodation - Hotel Adria Dubrovnik

Visit a family-run agrotourism villa surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and sweeping views of the Adriatic. Join a local host on a spirited walk around the picturesque grounds, pick fresh fruits and vegetables in the gardens, and watch a baking demonstration. Then sit down together to share a traditional lunch of local ham, cheeses, and wine. Return to Dubrovnik for a self-guided visit at the Red History Museum–a unique place showcasing life in the former Yugoslavia. After, walk to the G Adventures-supported Maritimo Recycling project where artists are creatively working to clean up the Adriatic Sea. This evening, join your group for an optional farewell dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - With its lush, scenic landscapes, Croatia’s Konavle Valley is a must for any visitor to the region. Visit a family-run agroturizam villa surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea. Meet our local hosts (who’ll greet us with homemade liqueur) and walk through their beautiful property to learn about the history and culture of the valley. Explore the lush gardens and pick fresh fruits and vegetables before enjoying a baking demonstration. Then, sit down for a traditional lunch of local hams, cheeses, breads, and wines. Yum.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Learn of the region's history and the daily life during socialist Yugoslavia from 1945 to 1991.Activity - Check out the environmentally-focused Maritimo Recycling, which turns plastic waste from the Adriatic Sea into useful products like fishing lures, sunglasses, and jewelry. The proceeds from the 3D printed products fund future sea cleanups, to create more products, to fund more cleanups, to... well, you get the point!Accommodation - Hotel Adria Dubrovnik

Explore at your leisure with a free day today. Discover the well-preserved medieval architecture found in the famous Old Town safely tucked away behind the city wall's stronghold. Take a cable car up Mount Srd and enjoy panoramic views of the city, or sip some Rozulin, a rose liqueur, with the sea breeze in your hair at one of the many seaside cafes.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - There's plenty to see and do in Dubrovnik so take the day to explore on your own terms. Visit Kolocep or see the historic city walls.Accommodation - Hotel Adria Dubrovnik

Cross the border to Montenegro to the stunning bayside town of Perast. Enjoy a boat cruise to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. In the National Geographic article “How to plan your pilgrimage to Montenegro‘s sacred spaces“ writer Kimberley J. Graham writes that the church is adorned with more than 2,500 silver plaques donated by sailors who credit the Madonna for their safe return from the sea. Explore the church and treasury before transferring back to Perast for a short walk to the old town and free time to wander the narrow streets and admire the abandoned baroque palaces. Continue onward and soak up the sparkling Bay of Kotor, designated a World Heritage Site for its terraced waterfront landscape and medieval architecture.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle to Kotor via Perast.Activity - Journey by boat through the stunning Bay of Kotor to a man-made island home to the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, built atop sunken ships and stones. The 17th-century church acts as a treasure trove of Baroque art and silver, amongst a dramatic landscape of rugged mountains plunging into the Adriatic.Free_time - Take time with your National Geographic Expedition Leqader to explore Perast's old town, known for Baroque palaces and churches that line the waterfront.Accommodation - Hotel Porto In

Join your tour leader on a walk to the local market this morning, then enjoy a free day to explore. Discover the Mediterranean spirit of Kotor, surrounded by fortifications built by the Republic of Venice. Consider hiking up the medieval steps of the fortress for panoramic views of the city and harbour. Or opt to experience mud therapy at a local spa to test the natural healing properties of the area's sand. Choose to visit the Risan Roman mosaics, go sea kayaking or if relaxing is more your style, the beaches of Herceg Novi offer a great escape.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Join your National Geographic Expedition Leader for a market walk this morning to explore regional specialties and artisan products.Free_time - The day is yours to do as much or as little as you choose.Accommodation - Hotel Porto In

Set off to the Kovacevic Family Botanical Garden this morning; home to a diverse collection of approximately 127 species of trees, shrubs, and various other flora – the first protected natural monument of its kind. Walk the grounds before transferring to the Dabovic Winery for a tour and tasting. Whet your palate with sips of wine and brandy paired with local specialties to truly immerse yourself in the local Montenegro culture before crossing the border to Bosnia and Herzegovina, en route to Trebinje. Upon arrival, visit the Hercegovačka Gračanica Temple for spectacular views of the city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore the meticulously tended paths that reveal a remarkable collection of native and foreign plants, a testament to one family's decades-long dedication to preserving the land's botanical heritage.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Step into the warm embrace of the Dabović family, who welcome you with a taste of their Montenegrin hospitality—freshly baked pastries and honey. Tour the cellar where you'll learn the secrets behind their revered wine and brandy production, then the experience culminates with a tasting paired with a curated spread of local delicacies that reflect the soul of the region.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - From its perch high above Trebinje, the Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery offers a stunning view of the city and the Trebišnjica River. Enjoy the scenery from this elevated vantage point.Accommodation - Hotel Integra

Today is an indulgence of local flavours, regional specialties. Begin with a tour of the local Green Market; take in the colourful stalls and sample the fragrant fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Next, head to a female-operated apiary to learn about all things honey and the history of this 5-generation-run farm. After, continue to another local farm specializing in the art of cheese making. Learn about cheese production, sample the products and join the family for an authentic farm-to-table lunch.Head back to Trebinje for an evening on your own.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Explore the local organic market where you'll meet cheese and meat vendors and try their specialties. Then, move to the outdoor stalls to taste seasonal fruits and vegetables from small farms. You'll also meet local women who collect wild medicinal plants and make traditional teas.Activity - Climb aboard a private bus and set off to a local, family run apiary. Meet your guide and learn of the 5 generations of women who've built the farm into what it is today. Suit up in protective gear should you wish, and see how they manage the hives. After, discover the honey and related products, learn more about the family history and enjoy the farm.Activity - Join our guide at a local farm that has specialized in cheese making over more than 5 generations. Today the farm is moving beyond just sustenance farming and joining the slow food movement to build awareness about organic food production. Here you'll visit the farm to witness the cheese production before enjoying lunch with the family, outside overlooking the farm. Cheese and meat made on site, fruits and vegetables grown on the farm, and homemade bread - it doesn't get more farm to table than that.Accommodation - Hotel Integra

Set off for ancient Stolac–one of the oldest cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visit the town centre and stop at the UNESCO-listed medieval Necropolis tombstones of Stecaka. Continue onward to Blagaj for a short orientation walk around town, then enjoy a free afternoon. Perhaps hike to the Blagaj Fortress or if you're looking for something a little different, visit the Dervish Monastery.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit Stolac's town centre and witness the "divided school," which reflects the town's unique history. Next, visit the Necropolis tomb stones of Stecaka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These medieval tombstones are a significant part of Bosnia and Herzegovina's cultural heritage.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Enjoy a free afternoon in Buna. Hike to the Blagaj Fortress or visit the Dervish Monastery to experience the local culture.Accommodation - Hotel Buna

Enjoy a scenic drive to Mostar for a stroll around the ancient town and pay a visit to the famed Stari Most (Old Bridge), considered a symbol of the city's resilience. This reconstructed Ottoman-style bridge was first built in the 17th century and then meticulously rebuilt after its destruction during the Bosnian War. Later, continue to impressive Sarajevo, a city steeped in history and culture. Head out for an evening food tour, exploring tiny alleys, local restaurants and markets and indulge in delicious Bosnian flavours.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit the city's symbol; a beautiful, reconstructed Ottoman-style bridge. The bridge was constructed in the 1600s and was meticulously rebuilt after its destruction during the war. It's a reminder of the tenacity of the Bosnians and is a gorgeous sight to behold. Wait at the bottom for daredevils to dive into the icy river below.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Immerse yourself in the culture by sampling traditional Bosnian flavours. Learn about the rich history while exploring important landmarks, tiny alleys, local restaurants, and hawker markets with a local expert. Discover the city beyond the tourist attractions and fill your belly; what could be better?Accommodation - Hotel Colors Inn Sarajevo

Learn about the four-year-long Siege of Sarajevo from a local expert who lived through this devastating period. Gain more insights at the Tunnel of Hope and War Tunnel Museum, and view bunkers, minefields, and trenches at Trebević Mountain, the site of several battles. After, take advantage of some free time to experience the site on your own before an optional farewell dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - At nearly four years (1992-96) the Siege of Sarajevo is the longest siege of a capital city in modern warfare. Learn about this devastating period from a local expert who lived through the Bosnian War and is willing to share personal stories of this time. Visit the Tunnel of Hope and War Tunnel Museum, and gain perspective on what it was like to live in a 20th century city under siege. Then visit Trebević Mountain, the site of several battles, to view bunkers, minefields, and trenches. One of the most interesting parts about this experience is the opportunity it gives viewers to learn how a city and its people can move beyond serious conflict and once more find peace living together.Free_time - Explore this fascinating city at your own pace.Accommodation - Hotel Colors Inn Sarajevo

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.